Francis Ngannou Breaks Down Sharing Heartbreaking Story: “I Don’t Know How To Deal With This!”

Added: Aug 8, 2024

Early Life and Struggles

Ngannou begins by reflecting on his childhood in West Cameroon, where he grew up in poverty. His parents struggled to make ends meet, with his father working as a carpenter and his mother taking on various jobs to support the family. Ngannou describes a life filled with hardship, where basic necessities like food and education were often out of reach. He recalls walking barefoot to school, feeling embarrassed for not having the same resources as his peers, and the emotional toll it took on him.

Despite these challenges, Ngannou found motivation in his circumstances. At the age of 13, after being expelled from school due to unpaid fees, he made a pivotal decision to pursue boxing. He recognized that combat sports could provide him with a path to a better life, but the lack of resources and training facilities in his village posed significant obstacles. Determined to chase his dream, he left his hometown for the city of Douala, where he hoped to find opportunities to train.

The Journey to Europe

Ngannou's journey took a harrowing turn as he sought to escape Cameroon and reach Europe. He faced numerous dangers, including crossing the Sahara Desert and attempting to scale the border fences into Spain. He recounts the terrifying experiences of traveling with smugglers, drinking contaminated water, and witnessing the deaths of others who attempted the same journey. Despite the risks, Ngannou's resolve to reach his goal never wavered. He attempted to cross the Mediterranean Sea multiple times in inflatable boats, each time facing the threat of being caught and sent back to Morocco.

After several failed attempts, Ngannou finally succeeded in crossing the sea. He was rescued by the Red Cross and taken to Spain, where he spent time in a detention center. The experience was a stark contrast to the life he had envisioned, but it was a necessary step toward achieving his dreams.

Finding His Path in Combat Sports

Once in Europe, Ngannou's journey continued as he sought to establish himself in the world of combat sports. He initially trained in boxing but soon transitioned to mixed martial arts (MMA) after being introduced to the sport by his coach, Fernand Lopez. Ngannou quickly rose through the ranks, fighting in various promotions across Europe. His natural talent and dedication led him to the UFC, where he became a heavyweight champion.

Ngannou reflects on the challenges he faced in the UFC, including the pressure to perform and the expectations placed upon him. He acknowledges that while he achieved great success, he was still learning the intricacies of the sport and how to navigate the business side of fighting.

The Heartbreaking Loss of His Son

In a poignant moment during the podcast, Ngannou opens up about the tragic loss of his 15-month-old son, Kobe. This devastating event profoundly impacted him, forcing him to confront the fragility of life and the purpose behind his fighting career. Ngannou expresses feelings of failure and helplessness, as he was unable to protect the one person he fought for the most. The grief he experiences is palpable, and he candidly admits that he struggles to process the loss.

Ngannou reflects on how the loss of his son has shifted his perspective on life. He acknowledges that he had been focused on achieving success and proving others wrong, but now he realizes that the most important things in life are family and love. The pain of losing Kobe has made him question his own strength and resilience, leading him to seek new purpose in his life and career.

The Fight for Freedom and New Opportunities

After leaving the UFC due to disagreements over contract terms and the desire for more freedom, Ngannou found himself at a crossroads. He was determined to continue fighting but wanted to do so on his own terms. He discusses the challenges of navigating the fight business and the importance of having control over his career. He emphasizes that he is not just fighting for money but for a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

His recent boxing match against Tyson Fury marked a significant moment in his career. Although he did not win the fight, Ngannou felt that he had proven himself on a global stage. The experience was a testament to his resilience and determination, and he acknowledges that the financial rewards from the fight have opened new doors for him.

Moving Forward with Purpose

As Ngannou prepares for his next steps, he reflects on the importance of finding purpose in his life. He plans to return to Cameroon, where he hopes to honor his son's memory by continuing to fight and inspire others. He recognizes that his journey is far from over, and he is committed to pushing himself to new heights in both MMA and boxing.